Raute’s board of directors has appointed Mika Saariaho as the company’s new president and CEO. He will join Raute from Metso Outotec Corporation where he holds the position of senior vice-president, with responsibility for the crusher wears business.
He will take over the position as Raute’s president and CEO at the latest on 24 Nov 2022.
Saariaho has more than 20 years of experience and a track record in international business, especially in technology companies. Prior to the formation of Metso Outotec, he worked in various leadership roles in both Metso and Outotec starting in 2010.
Before this he worked for the World Steel Association, Outokumpu and McKinsey, among others. He was born in 1973 and is a Doctor of Science (Technology).
“We are delighted to inform about this appointment and believe that Raute will be welcoming an excellent new president and CEO in Mika Saariaho. Mika’s extensive experience and competence provide him with an excellent foundation from which to take on this new position and to lead Raute along a profitable path. We would like to extend a warm welcome to Mika,” said Laura Raitio, chair of Raute’s board of directors.
Saariaho commented: “This position is a challenge that I am happy to take on. Raute has a long and distinguished history, a strong position as a technology supplier and a stable and long-standing owner base. I would like to thank the board of directors for their trust in appointing me. I look forward to working with Raute’s team to develop the company’s operations and create growth hand in hand with our customers’ success.”
As announced earlier, the company’s chief operating officer (COO) Petri Strengell will act as the company’s interim president and CEO until Saariaho takes over the position. Thereafter, Strengell will continue in his role as COO and member of the company’s executive board.
“The board of directors is happy with the approach that Petri and the entire executive board have taken in a challenging situation while managing the company during this transition period,” concluded Raitio.
